Nail Fungus - No Need To Keep Living With The Infection

by Richard Clement

Nail disorders are rarely disabling or even painful. But they are a nuisance. One of the most common problems is toenail fungus (medical name onychomysosis) - about 15 percent of people have it, including nearly half of those over 70.

This infection has received a great deal of press and advertisement time, as there are finally therapies that actually successfully eradicate these infections. A fast overview of the disease can really help us to get rid of it. The body normally hosts a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. Some of these are useful to the body. Others may multiply rapidly and form infections. Fungi can live on the dead tissues of the hair, nails, and outer skin layers.

An infection of nail fungus (called-onychomycosis) occurs when fungi infect one or more of your nails. Onychomycosis usually begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. This commonly affects toe nails rather than finger nails. The infection actually eats your skin and nail, so it can continue growing and may spread to other nails. Your nails may look "different," be so thick they're hard to trim, and may cause you discomfort, pain or tenderness that disrupts daily activities.

The prevalence of onychomycosis is about 15 percent in the adult population. Infections of nail fungus account for about half of all nail disorders. These infections usually develop on nails continually exposed to warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes or shower floors. nail infections may be difficult to treat and may recur often.

What are the symptoms of nail infection?

Anyone can get a fungal nail infection. They are especially common in people with diabetes or circulation problems. Children hardly ever get fungal nail infections. Primarily you may see, smell, or feel a nail fungus infection once it takes hold.

 Nails may look brownish, yellowish, or have little white patches. Some may even be brown or black.
 Nails may get flaky, brittle, and chipped.
 Bits of "gunk" or debris may collect under your nails. Your nails may smell bad.
 Nails may get so thick that wearing shoes causes pain.
 Discomfort from the infection may make it hard to walk, work, or do other activities.

These symptoms may not get better. In fact, if nail fungus infections are not treated, they may get worse. First, your healthcare provider will look closely at your nails. If your healthcare provider thinks you have nail fungus, he may perform a test. Your healthcare provider may clip off a small piece of your nail so that it can be examined. It may be examined in the office or sent out to a lab. This is the only way to know if you really have nail fungus.